US to Ban Chinese-Connected Self-Driving Vehicles

The US government is taking a significant step in the ongoing trade war by considering a ban on connected and self-driving vehicles manufactured in China. This move marks a major escalation in tensions between the two countries, with potential implications for the automotive industry.

The proposed restrictions would apply to both hardware and software components used in connected vehicles and autonomous driving systems originating from China and Russia. If implemented, the ban would take effect in stages, with software restrictions beginning in 2027 and hardware restrictions in 2030. The focus is on software-defined vehicles developed in China, which are seen as a potential threat to national security.

According to the White House, Chinese automakers are actively working to dominate connected vehicle technologies in the US and globally. This has raised concerns about the security of supply chains and the potential risks posed by foreign entities in critical infrastructure. The move to ban Chinese-made vehicles is part of a broader strategy to safeguard national interests.

The restrictions cover a wide range of systems and components that enable vehicle connectivity, including Bluetooth, cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi modules, as well as automated driving systems. The proposed rulemaking aims to prohibit the sale or import of connected vehicles incorporating specific technologies and components from countries of concern, particularly China and Russia.

The Department of Commerce has highlighted the growing connectivity of vehicles as a potential vulnerability that could be exploited by malicious actors. By restricting the import of certain hardware and software components, the US government aims to prevent the collection and misuse of sensitive information related to driver and passenger data, as well as critical infrastructure.